Rangeland note iof

1. RANGELAND
INTRODUCTION
Rangelands are vast natural landscapes in the form of grasslands, shrub lands (bushy lands), woodlands,
wetlands, and deserts. Types of rangelands include tall grass and short grass prairies, desert grasslands
and shrub lands, woodlands, savannas, chaparrals, steppes, and tundras. It is perhaps easier to define
rangelands by clearly describing what they are not. Rangelands are not: barren desert, farmland, closed
canopy forests, or land covered by solid rock, concrete and/or glaciers.
Types of Rangeland
Prairies are considered part of the temperate grasslands, savannas and shrub lands biome by ecologists,
based on similar temperate climates, moderate rainfall, grasses, herbs, and shrubs rather than trees, as the
dominant vegetation type.
Grasslands are areas where the vegetation is dominated by grasses and forbs (non-woody plants).
Grasslands occur naturally on all continents except Antarctica.
Steppe: The term is used to denote the climate encountered in regions too dry to support a forest, but not
dry enough to be a desert.
Pampas are the fertile South American lowlands that include the part of Argentine. The climate is mild,
with precipitation of 600 mm, more or less evenly distributed through the year, making the soils
appropriate for agriculture. These plains contain unique wildlife because of the different terrains around
it.
Shrub land is a plant community characterized by vegetation dominated by shrubs, often also including
grasses, herbs and geophytes. Shrub land may either occur naturally or be the result of human activity.
Woodland is a low-dense forest forming open habitats with plenty of sunlight and limited shade.
Woodlands may support an understory of shrubs and herbaceous plants including grasses.
Savanna is a grassland ecosystem characterized by the trees being sufficiently small or widely spaced so
that the canopy does not close. The open canopy allows sufficient light to reach the ground to support
grasses.
Desert (less than 250 mm rainfall per year) is a landscape or region that receives an extremely low
amount of precipitation, less than enough to support growth of most plants.
Tundra is a biome where the tree growth is hindered by low temperatures and short growing seasons.
The term tundra means treeless mountain tract. In tundra, the vegetation is composed of dwarf shrubs,
grasses, mosses, and lichens. Scattered trees grow in some tundra. The eco-tone (or ecological boundary
region) between the tundra and the forest is known as the tree line or timber line.
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Characteristics of Rangeland
1. Low rainfall/moisture stress
2. Not suitable for agriculture
3. High or low temperature
4. Degraded land (rocky/stony)
5. Shallow soil (low soil fertility)
6. Shorter growing season of the vegetation
7. Prevalence of rain shadow
8. Poor drainage
9. Desert like environmental situation
RANGE ECOSYSTEM OF NEPAL BY GEOGRAPHIC REGIONS/CLIMATIC REGIONS
Collectively, rangelands in Nepal comprise grasslands, pastures, scrubland and forests (MOPE 1998). The
rangeland environment supplies forage or vegetation for grazing or browsing livestock. Nepal's
rangelands have high biodiversity as they range from subtropical savannahs to temperate grasslands and
alpine meadows, and include the cold, arid steppes north of the Himalayas. Nepal's total grassland areas
are estimated to cover about 1.75 million hectares, or nearly 12% of Nepal’s total land area. About 70%
of the rangelands are situated in the western and mid-western regions, and it is estimated that only 37% of
rangeland forage is actually available or accessible for livestock (LMP 1993; Pariyar 1998). Based on the
physiographic, the range ecosystem of Nepal is categorized into five types:
Tropical rangelands (Approximately extended up to 1000 m)
• Poorly drained clay.
• Dominated by the grasses like Saccharum, Imperata cylindrical, Eulaliopsis binata etc.
• Some grasses are 2 m tall, found in Rapti valley of Chitwan NP and Suklaphanta.
• Lantana Camera (banmara) is gradually replacing many palatable species.
• Warm temperature and long dry seasons.
• Level land and dotted trees with low vegetation.
• Dominated by Acacia spp. in river sides and Shorea, Termaniallia etc on other places.
• Rhino in CNP, Arna in Koshi tappu, S.Deer in Suklaphanta, tiger etc.
Sub-tropical rangelands (Approximately extended from 1000-2000 m)
• Mostly associated with Pinus roxburghii, schima-castonopsis.
• More grasses in slopes than in plain area.

• They are heavily grazed and are infested with Eupatorium adenophorum (Banmara), Pteridium
aquilinum (bracken fern), Urtica parviflora (Stinging Nettle) and Artemisia vulgaris.
• The main forage species are A. bengalensis, A. nepalensis, Imperata cylindrica etc.
• Barking deer, common leopard etc are found here.
Temperate rangelands (Approximately extended from 2000-3000 m)
• Associated with oak or mixed broad-leafed species such as Quercus or bluepine forests.
• These pasture lands are very important, but due to heavy grazing for many years, less palatable
species such as Arundinella hookeri are found.
• In many areas, Andropogon tristis has been replaced with less palatable forage species such as
Arundinella hookeri.
• The common forage species are Arundinella hookeri, Andropogon tristis, Poa spp.
• Low rainfall and low evapo-transpiration
• Very dry seasons e.g lower mustang, humla,jumla.
• Mostly dominated by pinus spp. and rhododendron spp. in upper temperate regions.
Sub-alpine rangelands (Approximately extended from 3000-4000m)
• Dominated by Abies spp. and Rhododendron spp. including betula and juniper.
• Caragana spp. are low spiny shrubs rarely exceeding 1.5 m high.
• Caragana spp. grow in low rainfall areas (less than 250 mm)e.g mustang.
• Associated with a variety of shrubs.
• The common genera are Berberis and Caragana.
• Short growing seasons
• Cold temperature with low rainfall with dry seasons.
Alpine rangelands (Approximately extended above 4000 m)
• Lichens, mosses, dwarf plants including Rhododendron shrubs and junipers shrubs.
• Snow leopard, musk deer, mountain goats, wild yak etc.
• Cold area with snow
• High mountain region. Note: refer Annexes
FORAGE RESOURCES OF NEPAL: FARM FORESTRY LINKAGE

Nepal has a livestock population of about 6.5 million LU (livestock Unit) and the Nepalese farmers own
on an average of 3.3 LU per household. Statistically shows that Nepal has one of the world’s highest
livestock populations per unit of the cultivated land. However, the productivity per unit of livestock is
very low. One of the main constrains in the livestock development in the country is considered to be the
lack of animal feed. The major sources of nutrient provided to the ruminants are derived mainly from
straws (31%), green grass (30%), fodder tree leaves (12%) and the concentrates (7%).Forest resources has
been considered the most important resources. The feed resources in Nepal are given below:
Land types Availability of Resource
Cropland • Terrace, raisers, bunds and fallow lands
• Crop residue, grass, weeds, leaf fodder
• 33% of the total feed stuffs
Rangeland • Alpine, meadow, steppe, open grazing lands
• 30%of the total feed
Forestland • Leaf fodder and grasses
• 20% of the total feed
Wasteland • Wasteland fodder and grasses
• 16% of the total feed
Figure: A model of traditional Nepalese hill farming system

IMPORTANCE OF LIVESTOCK IN NEPALESE AGRO-ECOSYSTEM
Livestock plays a key role in the overall agricultural production system in the country. More than 80% of
the economically active population is engaged in agriculture. From terai to high mountains a strong
integrated system of livestock crops forest is in existence. Over 70% farmers of Nepal are based on
animals to sustain soil fertility and agriculture production. Sheeps are the major sources of local economy
of the mountains people. Livestock provides milk and fibres and their dried manure are the major sources
of energy. Some animals are used for trading as well. For e.g horses, donkey, goats, sheeps etc. In Terai
animals are used for transportation and land cultivation as well. Major sources of manure come from
livestock farm. Livestock contribute 53% to GDP, in Terai 27.6% and Mountains 8.6%. Similarly, wool
production, leathers production, meat production etc also contribute a lot etc.
Importance of Livestock
1. Agricultural production: Play key role in agricultural production (Livestock : > 14% of National
GDP and >24% of Agriculture GDP (NPC, 1993)
2. Economic importance: Production of milk, meat and wool
3. Cultural importance: Worship for religious purposes
4. Draft power: Pulling carts and carrying goods and things
5. Provides fuel: dried dung and biogas.
6. Recreational values: keeping dogs, cats, rabbit etc in a home.
Some limitation of livestock forming in Nepal

• Laborious Job
• Cultural and religious barrier.
• Needs huge amount of grass land
• Huge amount of initial cost
• Competition with food of human
• Breakout of diseases
Distribution of livestock in Nepal.
• High hills: major source of income. (horse +donkey +chauri+ sheep)
• Mid hills: second major source after cultivation ( Cow +buffalo +oxen +goat)
• Terai: Second major source after cultivation. (Buffalo + cow +oxen +goat)
2. RANGELAND ECOLOGY AND ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR
Introduction:
The removal of leaves or any lives part/s of a plant including leaves by any means by animals grazing or
by human intervention is called defoliation. The effects of defoliation may be positive or negative, which
are explain below.
a. Plant morphology:
• Removal of terminal bud and Growth of several lateral buds,
• Increment of foliage,
• Thickness of crown
• Sprouting of roots etc.

b. Plant physiology:
• Adverse effect on metabolism
• Damage on photosynthetic tissues
 Reduced carbohydrate reserve in the roots
o Root growth and forage production.
c. Seed production:
• Disturbance of entire physiology results
 Less seed production
 Reduced seed sizes and numbers
d. Vegetative reproduction:
• Reduces the photosynthesis plant tissues
 Hindering food synthesis process.
o Reduced size of the rhizomes, bulbs, culms etc.
• Effect of frequent early grazing affects on rhizomes production.
e. Root system:
• Reduced photosynthesis decreases nutrient uptake and root size.
• Hinders water intake capacity.
• Stop root growths results moisture stress in plants.
f. Soil conditions:
• Soil compact
 Reduces infiltration and increase runoff.
o Prohibits normal root development and poor germination.
g. Plant condition:
• Defoliated plants are susceptible to diseases, insects and rodents.
• Deteriorates soil moisture conditions
• Directly affects biodiversity.

PLANT TOLERANCE TO DEFOLIATION
Plant reacts to the defoliation in many ways. Different plants have different ability to tolerate the
phenomenon of defoliation. Following factors affect the phenomenon of defoliation.
1. Species to species: Deciduous plants have more tolerance capacity than evergreen plants.
2. Seasons/timing: in dry seasons (winter) recovery from defoliation is slow.
3. Frequency: rate of defoliation is more on particular months.
4. Intensity: serious defoliation focused on specific areas or parts.
5. Cutting height: recovery process affect by plants cutting height. .g cut Napier grass by leaving
20-30 cm on ground.
6. Stage of maturity, growth and protein content of the plant. (less Nitrogen more defoliation)
7. Competition of plants for water, nutrients and light (survival under stress).
8. Carbohydrate cycle in the grass: less synthesis of carbohydrate during photosynthesis results
more defoliation.
9. Grazing resistance capacity of the plants reduces the probability of defoliation.
(a) Avoidance mechanisms: A mechanism in which plant start to produce large no of small tillers,
reduced leaf number, leaf blade areas. This reduces the amount of biomass removed by
herbivorous and plants stated to avoid by animals.
(b) Tolerance mechanisms: A mechanisms in that facilitates re-growth of the plant following
defoliation. It increases the no of apical meristem that may contribute growth after defoliation.
Plant started to produces reproductive tillers.
GRASSLAND (FACTORS THAT DEFINE GRASSLANDS)
Land area composed by the herbaceous species of grass as the dominant component.
Types: (a) Natural Grassland (b) Artificial grassland
Natural Grassland: The grassland in which the plant communities have perennial grass as dominant
species. There may be few or no shrubs at all. However, trees are completely absent. Main factors
determining such grassland are: (a) Determined by the extreme climate (b) Low moisture availability (c)
Get just enough precipitation (d) Found between desert and forest or at the rain shadow of mountains.
Artificial Grassland: These are the grassland of more recent origin. They have been formed by
destroying forest mainly by cutting and fire. These have been maintained largely through grazing animals.
Main factors determining such grasslands are:
Climatic factors: Precipitation, Temperature, Humidity
Edaphic factors: physical and chemical properties of soil
Biotic factors: influenced by: Fire, Grazing and land clearing
Category of grassland Found in

Tropical grasslands Africa, South America, northern Australia, India
Prairie/steppe North America, Central Eurasia, South Africa
Temperate grasslands Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand, Asia
Tundra all subarctic grasslands
Grassland categories according to climatic zones (NBS, 2002)
Zone Remarks
Tropical Grasslands grazed almost all the year round.
Subtropical Non-palatable species such as ferns, stinging nettle, and Eupatorium species are
becoming dominant because of heavy grazing.
Temperate Winter grazing for cattle, sheep and goats.
Burning to improve grasslands is a common practice, causing increased soil erosion.
Subalpine Seasonal grazing only because of heavy snow cover in winter.
Burning of grasslands at the end of the grazing season and in early spring is common.
Alpine Grasslands are grazed only during the summer (June - September).
FACTORS THAT DEFINE GRASSLAND
Stress: It is defined as a Pressure and tension from the defoliation. It is a factor that inhibits growth and
production. Plant can survive under stress. Stress is due to: Climate factors, edaphic factors, Topographic
factors and biotic factors.
 Climatic factors: it is influence by: Precipitation, Temperature & Humidity
 Edaphic factors: it is influence by: Soil depth, Soil structure, Soil Texture, Soil Moisture & Soil
fertility
 Biotic Factors: it is influence by: Fire, Grazing, Land Clearing, land slides
Fire: To the range manager, fire and grazing are the principle tools of rangeland vegetation management.
The research has proved that increase in fire frequency decreases the grass productivity. Wild and
uncontrolled fire may be devastating to all perennial vegetation. The role of fire is considered to be a little
controversial. That is why; in many countries burning of the land is prohibited by laws.
Grazing: Heavy grazing seriously weakens the pressure species particularly, legumes and encourages the
weed to develop better. It retarded photosynthesis process resulting in reduced manufacture of food,
nutrient uptake and plant vigor.
Lang clearing: Clearing is accomplished mainly for cultivation. It exposes the soil, increase surface
runoff, reduces soil permeability, and increases soil erosion leading to the big landslides. If clearing is
confined to remove unwanted grass species in the rangeland, it may have some positive impact.
PLANT SUCCESSION AND COMMUNITY COMPOSITION IN RANGE ECOSYSTEM

Plant succession: It is the change of the range vegetation from earlier stage to more developed stage.
Therefore, Understanding of succession is basic to range management. Succession begins when an area is
made partially or completely devoid of vegetation because of a disturbance. Some common mechanisms
of disturbance are fires, wind storms, volcanic eruptions, logging, climate change, severe flooding,
disease, and pest infestation. Succession stops when species composition changes no longer occur with
time, and this community is said to be a climax community.
Process involve in succession: Colonization, Establishment and Extinction.
TYPES OF SUCCESSION
Primary Succession: It is the establishment of plants on land that has not been previously vegetated. It
begins with colonization and establishment of pioneer species. Succession in primary area such as newly
formed dunes, deltas etc. It takes long period of time to attain the climax (autogenic succession).
Secondary Succession: It is the invasion of a habitat by plants on land that was previously vegetated.
Removal of past vegetation may be caused by natural or human disturbances such as fire, logging,
cultivation, or hurricanes, grazing etc. Succession after disturbance imposed on the path of primary
succession (allogenic succession).
Progressive succession: It is a succession where the community becomes complex and contains more
species and biomass over time.
Retrogressive succession: It is a succession where the community becomes simplistic and contains fewer
species and less biomass over time. Some retrogressive successions are allogenic in nature. For example,
the introduction of grazing animals results in degenerated rangeland.
Model in the Succession process
1. The Facilitation Model
 Pioneer species establish a presence on the site of a disturbance.
 They modify a site, for instance, by regenerating the soil with organic material making the area
more attractive for invasion by other species.
 Eventually, new species move in, edging out the pioneers.
 This process may repeat itself several times, until the ecosystem reaches the climax stage
2. The Tolerance Model
 All species involved in succession are equally capable of establishing themselves on a recently
disturbed site.
 But those capable of attaining a large population size quickly are likely to become dominant
 This model is more akin to natural selection
3. The inhibition Model
• All species have equal opportunity to establish population after a disturbance.
• Some of the early species actually make the site less suitable for the development of other
species.

• An example of this is when plant secretes toxins in the soil, thus inhibiting the establishment and
growth of other species.
SUCCESSIONAL RESPONSE OF GRAZING
Desirable (Decreaser): Highly productive and palatable species that provide good environmental
protection.
Less Desirable (Increaser): Species which are less productive and palatable than desirable species and
which provides less environmental protection.
Undesirable (Invader): Species that yield very little, if any, forage that is not particularly palatable. They
impair the ecosystem. They can also be noxious.
The terms decreaser, increaser and invader are used in the United States.
Two types of succession are realized due to grazing:
1) Retrogressive succession
2) Progressive succession
Retrogression or degeneration is the replacement of a community of plants of higher ecological order with
a community of lower ecological order. Disturbance of the stabilized climax through overgrazing or
cultivation causes retrogression. Improper grazing management are responsible for this. Too intensive
grazing is marked by a disappearance of the preferred plants or those physiologically less resistant to
grazing. Vegetation deterioration is followed by soil degradation. The latter begins with loss of organic
matter and structure breakdown followed by erosion. If disturbance is compensated or eliminated in time,
succession moves back towards climax. When the supply of desirable species becomes limited, the
animals then turn to the next most palatable species, which are usually less productive and nourishing and
less desirable in respect to soil and water conservation. While the desirable species are decreasing, these
species increase to a point, but with continued overuse, they also weaken and die. These species are
termed "increasers" or "less desirable". Only unpalatable species and grazing evasive species can survive
such a system of overgrazing and eventually these will invade and they are termed "invaders" or
"undesirable". Invaders are less productive than increasers and are of very little value as regards soil and
water conservation. Some are excessive consumers of water, giving nothing in return, and livestock refuse
to graze.
Stages in vegetative Retrogression induced by grazing
 Physiological Disturbance of Climax plants
 Composition Changes of the Climax cover
 Invasion of New Species
 Disappearance of Climax plants
 Decreased Density of Invaders
Progressive succession:
 Development of vegetation towards climax
 If soil is not disturbed much by overgrazing
GRAZING BEHAVIOUR OF LIVESTOCK AND WILDLIFE
Grazing behavior of animals differ from each other, some examples are given below.

• Goats: prefer browse woody plants then forbs.
• Sheep: prefer forbs then grasses
• Cattles: Prefer grasses
• Horse: selective grazers
• Buffalos: prefer long grass
• Zebra: feeds upper parts of the grasses
• Elephants: clumps of grass, barks, and branches of the tree etc.
PALATABILITY AND PREFERENCE
Palatability is defined as plant characteristic. Palatability can be defined as the relative attractiveness of
plants to a feeding animal. The palatability of a plant is determined by a variety of characteristics, such as
fiber content, flavor, nutrient and chemical content, and morphological features such as roughness or
spines. Different kinds of animals are differentially attracted by a particular species.
Preference refers to the selection of plants by animals. Relative preferences indicate proportional choice
among two or more foods. Preference is a combination of learned and genetically programmed.
Palatability and preference have been used as synonyms (Ivins, 1952). Palatability or preference measure
in the percentage utilization observed at a particular time or place. 70% utilization of a species commonly
is taken to mean both palatability and preference] (e.g. if the plant makes an animal sick, it learns to avoid
it). Legumes, such as alfalfa, seem to maintaining their good taste. livestock will always eat the wild
white clover first (in between red clover and white clover).Many broadleaves are even more palatable.
Dandelions are extremely tasty and feel very pleasant in the mouth (trendy restaurants use them in
salads). They remain palatable for longer periods than grasses or legumes. Younger, less fibrous leaves
are preferred. However else can we use our knowledge of palatability and animal preferences to improve
pasture management. Ryegrass is very tasty and has a pleasant feel in your mouth during the early stages
of maturity.
PREFERENCE INDEX
It is defined as a Utilization Percent/Represent percent. It is not clearly know why certain plants are
selected over other. Some plants are eaten by one kind of animals while others plants may be eaten by
more than one kind of animals. It depends on species, breed of livestock.
Reason for plant selectivity by animals depends on following factors: (a) Nutrients content: Protein (b)
Taste: Salty, bitter, sour, sweet (c) Moisture content: (d)Mineral content: (e) Essential oil: (f) Fiber or
lignin content (g) Texture
Rejection level of four animals
Salty: Cattle> sheep> normal goats> pigmy goats
Sour: Cattle> Sheep> normal goats> Pigmy goat
Bitter: Sheep and Cattle> normal and Pigmy goat

Sweet: No rejection thresholds established
Plant use factor may vary according to which affect the preference for range plants by livestock and wild
life depends on: (a) Associated species (b) Kind of stock (c) Season (d) Year (e) Past grazing use (f)
Undefined local condition (g) Familiarity with plant
FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE FORAGE PALATABILITY
Animal Factors: The animal factors that influence palatability may be partitioned into five major
categories: (a) Senses (b) Species or breeds, (c) Individual variations, (d) Previous experience or
adaptation (e) Physiological condition.
Plant Factors: Among the numerous plant factors that may at times influence forage palatability to
animals are: (a) Species (b) Intra specific variation (c) Chemical composition (d) Morphology or physical
traits (e) Succulence or maturation (f) Availability in non-controlled situations, and (g) Form of forage
controlled by mechanization.
Environmental Factors: Natural and induced environmental factors frequently influence plant selection
by ruminant animals. Among these are:
(1) Plant diseases: (presence or absence is environment dependent),
(2) Soil fertility,
(3) Animal dung,
(4) Feed additives,
(5) Climatic variation,
3. RANGE INVENTORY
Range: Range means broad, open, unfenced areas over which grazing animals roam.

Inventory: To make a systematic list of something.
Range inventory is the process of gathering and analyzing information of Physical characteristic of range
or rangeland and Biological characteristic of range or rangeland. Rangeland information is obtained by
observation or from public and private records. Information collected in the inventory is used as a
framework to aid in the development of range classification systems. Rangeland Inventory involves
collection of range data systematically, evaluation the data scientifically and production a practical, and a
workable range management plan under improved management condition. Rangeland inventory includes:
• Classification of rangeland
• Mapping of the vegetation types of the range
• Range improvement process
• Prevailing trend, its production and utilization
• Readiness of the range for the specific purpose
• Season of the range use
PURPOSE OF RANGE INVENTORY
(a) Ecological classification: To determine Physical and environmental factors such as precipitation,
topography, soil, vegetation
(b) Range forage inventories: To determining grazing capacity ( domestic or wild animals) and to
focus on plant species
(c) Utilization survey: To assessing the current grazing pressure and to determining appropriateness
of current stocking level or management system
(d) Condition and Trend analysis: To judge the adequacy of stocking and management practices
which is based on successional and community dynamics concept.
(e) Multiple use surveys: To determine the entire biological and physical resource based with the
objective of integrating all capabilities.
(f) Rangeland appraisals: To determining economic productivity of a range area.
Range inventory is particularly concerned with the classification of shrubs (tall and low) and herbs (forbs
and graminoids), which are forage for livestock and wildlife.
Vegetation inventories: (a) To find out the absolute or relative abundance of plant species
(c) Data quantified by: Numeration, volume or weight
Vegetation inventory range samples consist of: (i) a complete listing of plant species present (ii) shrub
transects to measure shrub abundance (iii) Micro-plots to estimate forage production and utilization.
METHODS OF VEGETATION ANALYSIS OR RANGE SPECIES INVENTORY
SPECIES LISTING
The Process of identification and listing of all available species (grasses, grass-like plants, herbs, shrubs
and tree of a rangeland is called species listing. It require
 Local people discussion and their experience and investigator experience.

 Survey of the range area.
 Collection of sample plants.
 Identification of all the plant collected.
 You need to do species listing at first.
Format for species listing I
Local Name English Name Scientific Name Symbol
Napier ghas Napier Pennisetum purpureum Pepu
Setaria Ghans Setaria Setaria acepa Seac
Panic Ghans Green Panic Penicum maximun Pama
.............. ............ ...... .........
After species listing in format I, available data need to further divided into several group based on the
preference
Format for species listing II
Preference Type Local Name English Name Scientific Name Symbol
Desirable sp Napier ghas Napier Pennisetum purpureum Pepu
Intermediate sp Setaria Ghans Setaria Setaria acepa Seac
Least Desirable Sp Panic Ghans Green Panic Penicum maximun Pama
Not Desirable Sp .............. ............ ...... .........
There may be many species of vegetation that cannot be recognized and identified that may be specific to
the area under study. They should be brought to the highly specialized person for their identification.
Consult with expert of Department of plant resources.
GENERAL OBSERVATION
In this method overall condition of rangeland observed by ocular method. It is highly subjective study of
vegetation study. It may vary from observer to observer and required a lot of experience. It aims to make
a quick assessment on the species of a grassland site and assess any current or potential threats. As well as
providing baseline survey data it will allow the project team to priorities sites for future conservation
management.
COVER: Cover is the vertical projection of vegetation from the ground as viewed from above. Two
types of cover are recognized for the study.
1. Basal cover is the area where the plant intersects the ground;
2. Aerial cover is the vegetation covering the ground surface above the ground surface. You can
visualize aerial cover by considering a bird's-eye view of the vegetation.
It is the indicator of the dominance of a particular species of vegetation in the rangeland and also, the
biomass of the vegetation in the rangeland can be estimated. It can be expressed in fraction or
percentage.

Cover can be estimated by the following method (a) Visual estimation (b) Point method (c) Line
interception method
Visual estimation: It is the estimation of a vegetation cover in a particular area based on general
visualization. So it required a lot of experience to be close to the correctness. This is also subjective
method, may vary with surveyor.
In this method, several circular or rectangular quadrants are used and each of them is estimated
individually to have the estimate of overall area.
Point/Frame/Hit method: It Consists of Metallic frame, sliding pins at equal intervals set in vertical
position by means of rigid crossbars. The length of pin varies from few inches to a foot depending upon
the vegetation. Commonly, frame consists of 10 sliding pins of one ft length.
Procedure:
 Samples are ocular surveyed.
 Vegetation species to be estimated are identified.
 Set frame in field randomly.
 All pins are pulled and each pin is lowered
 Hits by the pins are recorded

Cover %= Mean of all the hits (total hits on a particular vegetation species) X 100
Total number of pin lowered
Drawback of Point/hits method
 Broad leaf plants are hit more
 Blunt pins are likely to overestimate
 Wind movement biasness
 Time consuming
Line interception method: It consists of recording horizontal linear measurement of a particular species
or more than a species alone a line.Plant foliage that is intercepted along the line is measured and the total
intercepts of the vegetation species to be estimate along the line is the percentage of the ground surface
covered by that particular species.
% cover= Distance Intercepted x 100
Total Length
Procedure
 A metallic tape of 100 ft or as required
 Sample area is surveyed.
 Plant species to be estimated and identified.
 Transacts are drawn randomly holding two ends of the tape
 It is stretched at a uniform height
 Plant foliage intercepted by the transact is recorded.
DENSITY
It is defined as the number of individual species present in unit area. It can be express in fraction or
percentage. It is more precise method than the cover method. It involves the actual counting of vegetation
species and involves little or no estimation. Generally 2.5 X 2.5 cm plots are used
Density of species
= Total no. of individuals of species
Total no. of plots sampled X area of a plot
FREQUENCY
It is the number of occurrence of a species of vegetation in a particular area. It reflects a good indication
of the spatial distribution of a vegetation species over a particular area. It can also be expressed in terms
of either fraction or in percentage.
 Frequency of species = No. of plots in which species occurs X 100
Total no of plots sampled

DETERMINATION OF CARRYING CAPACITY AND GRAZING CAPACITY
Animals Unit (AU/au): It is referred to as a mature buffalo or its equivalent or a mature cow of 1000 Ibs
with its calf on the ground up to six months old.
 Number of animals= pasture size X pasture yield per acre
( Daily intake X average animal weight X days of grazing)
Grazing Capacity:
The maximum animal number that can graze each year on a given area of rangeland for a specific
numbers of days of the year without inducing a downward trend of forage biomass production, and forage
and soil quality.
Carrying capacity:
The maximum number of individual animals that can survive the greatest period of stress each year on a
given land area depending upon the range capability to produce different products and within inducing
downward trend of the range condition. Thus, the carrying capacity is the number of individuals an
environment can support without significant negative impacts to the given organism and its environment.
Grazing capacity Carrying capacity
Maximum number of animals that produces the
greatest return from a given area of land
Maximum number of individuals that can survive
With out damaging the physical resources Physical condition with in limitation
GC= Total forage production
Forage requirement/animal/day* 365* area
of the grazing land
CC= Total forage production in the rangeland
forage acre requirement/animal AU
Grazing capacity have less animals than carrying
capacity.
Carrying capacity includes more than maximum
numbers of animals that can survive in the given
area.
Term used for rangeland management and
livestock management
Wide coverage (Tourism, engineering, forestry)
Animal population can increase above the
grazing capacity.
Below carrying capacity, populations typically
increase, while above, they typically decrease.
Used simply for grazer Use for game animals such as area of suitable
habitat, sufficient foraging area, appropriate cover
and a large enough area to cater for social needs
(Furstenburg 2002).
LIMITATION OF CARRYING CAPACITY CONCEPT
 Possibilities of Under utilize (lower production year)
 Possibilities of over utilize of the forest resources (higher production year)
 Not suitable when animals to be grazed, its distribution, and the season to use are not obvious.
 It depends on different factors
Dependent factors

 Biomass composition /Vegetation composition
 Palatable species/unpalatable species
 Environment factor (Temp, rainfall, wind,)
 Topographic factors ( Slope, Aspect)
RANGE CONDITION CLASSIFICATION FOR NEPAL/ CONCEPT AND DEFINITATION
The production and productivity of rangelands are very low, ranging from 0.12 to 3.2 metric ton (mt) dry
matter (DM)/ha. Only 64% of the rangelands are accessible. Most of the rangelands are overstocked and
severely grazed out. The estimated carrying capacity ranges from 0.06 to 1.4 livestock units (LU)/ha. The
stocking rate on rangelands is very high -up to 37 times the carrying capacity (Pandey, 2008)
The concept of classification of range condition was first develop in USA. It described as the state and
health of the range based on what range is naturally capable of producing. The term range condition has a
special meaning for the range manager. The condition of the rangeland depends on the seasonal factors. If
rains have been frequent and temperature favorable, range are good. Range manager attempts to look
beyond the immediate greenness of the herbage. It is the classification of the condition of the rangeland to
the potential of a particular area that is capable of producing forage. Range-condition classification is
based upon ecological concept of plant succession and climax. Range vegetation can be classified as
climatic, edaphic, and biotic factors. The main factors responsible for depletion of range condition are:
 Early grazing
 Over grazing
 Selective grazing
 Invasion by the undesirable species of vegetation and
 Climatic variability
CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (Criteria for range condition classification).
The criteria for range condition depend on the purpose of classification (Soil Factors, Plant Composition,
and Forage value).
SN Factors Criteria Description Classification
1 Soil Type Depth of soil
Soil Erosion
Soil Moisture
Moisture retention capacity , Soil texture,
Soil structure
2 Vegetation
Composition
Vegetation Species
Vigor
Density
Age
Litter formation
Status of Regeneration and Reproducing capability
3 Forage Value Nutritive value of the forage, its palatability and
productivity

Methods of range condition classification
1. Quantitative Climax Approach
This approach is based on the percentage of climax vegetation or species composition. All range plants
are grouped in three (Decreaser, Increaser, and Invaders).Commonly called Soil conservation service
method. Range condition have been recognized in to ( Dyksterihius);
Range Condition Percent of Climax
Poor 0-25%
Fair 25-50%
Good 50-75%
Excellent 75-100%
2. USDA Forest Service Method
Due to the limitation of the Species composition classification which describe above, this method is used.
This is based on various factors which determine range condition, these factors have been given rating
and marks have been allotted for each.
a) Soil Condition
Characteristic Point
Class 1 No soil loss, well dispersed accumulation of litter and older litter Rating 20
Class 2 Soil movement slight, noticed of rill erosion, no accumulation of
past litter
Rating 17
Class 3 Soil loss more noticeable, top soil loss, rill marks and poorly
dispersed litter
Rating 7
Class 4 Advance stage of erosion, active gullies, exposed plant roots Rating 0
b) Density of ground cover
Density Rating
0.50 plus 10
0.45 9
0.40 8
0.35 7
0.30 6
0.25 5
0.20 4
0.15 3
0.10 2
Less than 0.10 1

c) Vegetation Composition and Age
Class Characteristics Rating
1 The perennial herbaceous forage of better quality are abundant.
Better quality of forage plant
10
2 The perennial herbaceous forage of better quality are moderately, 7
3 The perennial herbaceous forage of better quality are scarce 5
4 The perennial herbaceous forage of better quality are relices. 1
d) Plant Vigour
Class Characteristics Rating
1 Palatable plants vigorous, grassess robust with numerous leaves,
leaves dark green.
10
2 Palatable plants lacking in vigour. Forage species are shorter, fewer
seed stalks,
7
3 Palatable plants lacking in vigour, gresses weak forage plants are
nor reproducing
5
4 Palatable plants sickly and weak. Grasses may be pale yellowis in
color, seed stalks few and short, no seedling
1
You need to add above A, B, C and D number according the condition and compare your data with the
table below to find range condition.
Range condition Point
Good Over 40 pts.
Fari 30-40
Poor 15-29
Very Poor Less than 15
3. Site Potential approach
SN Range condition Vegetation type Percent compositon
1 Excellent Palatable grass, herbs, forbs,
browse
75-100
2 Good Above species in less amounts 50-75
3 Fair Above species in lesser amounts 25-50
4 Poor Above species in very less
amounts
0-25

CONDITION TREND ANALYSIS
The nutritive value of the forage change with its growth and maturity. Such as the protein content is
higher during earlier stage and biomass increase with the age. Higher nutritive value as well as
palatability is realized at the mid of maturity period when the biomass is also at its optimum and advise to
fed to animal for maximum benefit. With maturity, the protein as well as the phosphorus content of
vegetation decrease and consequently, the carbohydrate content increases. Mature grasses have more fiber
content and less palatable. At the same time, the vitamin content is reduced with the age of the plant.
Judging range trend is even more hazardous than judging range conditions, because there are few
objective means for assessing trend. We analyze the soil factors and Plant factors for this.
 Soil factors
 Presence of litter
 Evidence of soil trampling
 Presence condition of gullies
 Plant factors
 Plant vigor
 Seeding establishment
 Degree of percent utilization
 Evidence of past utilization
4. RANGE IMPROVEMENT
Range Improvement: Its aim is based on the ecological principles of competition/succession. It includes
1. Increase production (quality/quantity) of species.
2. Balance species by inducing succession towards desirable direction.

3. Effective utilization of forage production.
4. Increase productivity of range depended animals ( both livestock and wildlife)
How to improve rangeland
1. Direct methods: (a) Seedling (b) Controlling undesirable/noxious plants (c) Cultural operation
((weeding, hoeing, pitting, furrowing, fertilizer application, irrigation)
2. Indirect methods (a) Fencing (b) Trail improvement (c) Water availability (d) Effective utilization
of the herbage (e) Grazing management
GRAZING PRESFERENCE OF VEGETATION WITH GRAZING ANIMALS
Different animals have different grazing behavior and dietary preference
Types of animals Grazing preference
Cattle Less selective and less severe in pasture mainly eat grasses but browse any
edible shrubs that appear in path
Buffalo Long grasses
Sheep Closer grazer ( remove tall grasses from top to bottom, select a diet much
more nutrition
Goat Browse mainly
Horse/donkey Selective grazer, close to ground ignore browse
Elephant Clumps of grasses, bark, branches of the tree
Dietary Preference of different type of animals
Types of animals Dietary Preferences
High Medium Low
Cattle Ground grass Shrubs/Forbs -
Buffalo Ground grass Shrubs/Forbs -
Sheep Shrubs/grass - -
Goat Shrubs Forbs -
Horse Close grass Forbs Grass
Deer Shrubs/Browse Forbs Grass
By knowing animals’ behaviours range vegetation can be manipulated. So we can combine different types
of animals. If we want to control shrubs of the range we can keep goat. For control herbs of the rangeland
horse/donkey will be best. Similarly, to utilize both shrubs and grasses: combination of goat and cattle
will be best.
Strategies for range improvement
1. Balance the number of animals to be grazed with the carrying capacity of the area.
2. To allow the livestock which are best suited for the existing vegetation.

3. Proper distribution of the grazing animals over the entire grassland.
4. Reseeding the grassland with improved variety of grasses which have a higher yield, and nutritive
and more palatable.
5. Application of manure and fertilizer and keeping the area weed- free.
6. Adopting the principles of grazing management and encouraging stall feeding and storage of
grasses.
7. Adopting proper soil conservation measures needed for the improvement of the grassland.
GRAZING MANAGEMENT: It consists of wise and skillful manipulation of two basic biological
elements: (i) Pasture area (ii) Grazing animals
The principal factors that are under the direct control of the manager includes: (a) Choice of the species
(b) Manipulation of agronomic practices (c) Selection of livestock feeding (d) Use of supplementary feeding
(e) Choice of the grazing system.
Objective of grazing system: (a) To restore the plant vigour (b) To allow plants to produce seeds (c) To
accomplish uniform utilization of forage (d) To maintain animal productivity (e) To maintain ecological
stability
GRAZING SYSTEM (TYPES)
(a) Continues Grazing system (b) Rotation Grazing system (c) Deferred grazing system (d) Deferred-
Rotation grazing system (e) Controlled Grazing
CONTINUOUS GRAZING SYSTEM
It is extensive grazing in which the stocks are grazed in the same grazing area over a prolonged period of
time. After a long period of continuous grazing with high stocking rate pasture deteriorates is the common. It
changes the species composition /succession (favourable for thorn like plants). This is common practice in
Nepal.
Advantages: (a) Requires less management (b) Capital costs are minimal
Disadvantages:
• Lower forage quality and yields
• Lower stocking rate and less forage produced per acre
• Uneven pasture use
• Greater forage losses due to trampling
• Animal manure is distributed unevenly
• Weeds and other undesirable plants may be a problem
ROTATIONAL GRAZING SYSTEM
It is an intensive system of grazing in which stocks are grazed in the different area of the rangeland
moving from one part to another in rotation. The aim of this system of grazing is to use the grassland
when it is young and highly nutritious and then allow an adequate recovery period.
Advantages:
• Can increase forage production and improve pasture condition.
• Allows pastures to rest and allows for forage re growth

• Can provide a longer grazing season, reducing the need for feeding harvested forages
• Better distribution of manure throughout the pasture
Disadvantages:
• Costs for fencing and water systems can be higher than with continuous grazing
• Forage production and pasture utilization is not as high as intensive rotational grazing systems
DEFERRED GRAZING SYSTEM
In this system, grazing is delayed until after the most important species have seed, rhizomes, etc for
reproduction and propagation. Grazing land vegetation allows to grow fully, root systems are allowed to
develop and self sown seeds established. This practice is beneficial for improving degraded pasture and
for the conservation of endangered range vegetation.
DEFERRED ROTATIONAL GRAZING SYSTEM:
It consists of dividing the grazing land into several compartments, usually three compartments, and the
animals are grazed alternatively into two while protecting the third compartment during the growing
season. It will allow the palatable species to recoup their vigour. The animals are then allowed to graze
the third protected compartment after grass has seeded. Protection of one compartment for once in three
years.

STRIP GRAZING SYSTEM:
Strip grazing is more intensive and modified form of rotational grazing. In this case a movable electric
fence is placed across the grazing paddock and is moved forward once or twice in a day. This system is
applied generally to high productive dairy animals. This will require a small outlay on suitable fencing (ie
electric tape which will be highly visible to the horse), plastic stakes which can be moved, and an
energiser.
CONTROLLED GRAZING
In this system the number of animals that are allowed to graze per unit area of rangeland is fixed in
accordance with the carrying capacity of rangeland.
Choosing a grazing system: Continuous grazing does, however, have the benefit of low capital in-
vestment, since few fencing and watering facilities are required. Because livestock are seldom moved
from pasture to pasture, management decisions are simple. Rotational (or controlled) grazing, on the other
hand, increases pounds of animal production per acre.
FIRE AS A MANAGEMENT TOOL (controlled burning):
The controlled burning is recognized practice in the management of rangelands. But the practice has great
diversity of opinions and has become a controversial subject. In range management controlled burning
has defined as the “Planned application and confinement of fire to preselected wild land area.” Many
studies have revealed that the judicious use of fire has great role in range management but too frequent
and unseasonal burning, especially if not followed by good management practices is harmful for the
rangelands.
Objectives and importance:
1. To remove unutilized material of previous years and to stimulate growth of new vegetation.
2. To remove unwanted species (thorny, noxious) in more effective and economical way thus to
increase the growth of preferred grasses.
3. In tropical areas the grasslands are bunt to induce early spring growth of grasses.
4. To produce ash for fertilization. (Burnt material increases the fertility of the soil.)
5. To produce quality and quantity of forage for livestock (The crude protein % in the herbage
increased after burning. (Smith,1960))

6. To control undesirable animals and insects such as ticks and reptiles.
a. Fire removes old, steamy and fibrous growth which would not be eaten by animals.
b. Fire burns litter which suppresses the desirable species.
c. It helps to obtain the desirable species composition.
d. High temperature of the fire imitates the sprouting as result new tillers formed even in the dry
season.
e. It facilitates the movement of livestock by controlling/destroying the bushes.
f. It controls pests and pathogens and increases the soil ph.
Some results of burning in the grassland:
a. The root and shoot production in Dichanthium grassland of Varansi has increased after burning
(Pandey, 1971).
b. Total annual net production of 2480g/m2
on plots burned twice in a year as compared to 1325g/m2
for unburned plots
c. Nitrogen content of soil has also increased rapidly in burned grassland.
d. Changes the vegetative composition in some area in some extends.
Summery, burning is a valuable tool in the management of rangelands. But at the same time it has
an adverse effect also. Each individual area has to be analyzed critically before the practice of
burning is adopted. The results obtained in one area should not be made a basis for the
application in similar areas. It should always be practiced with great care and should be regulated
in respect of frequency, intensity and time of burning.
CONTROL OF WEEDS
To improve the rangeland we have to control and eradicate the unwanted weeds. The invasion of grazing
lands by the weed reduces the carrying capacity of the range land. The weeds have and adverse effects on
the forage production of the area as they compete with main crop for water, soil nutrients, light and space.
The poisonous weeds and shrubs may be injurious to the grazing livestock if these are grazed during the
period of scarcity or accidently eaten by them, when mixed with the main crops it reduces the forage
value of the crop.
Methods of weeds control:
1. Cultural control: The establishment of competitive and desirable vegetations prevents or slows
down the invasion by weeds which are the key component of successful weeds management.
2. Biological Control: Living agents are used to control the unwanted weeds. Such agents may be
useful insects, bacteria or may be grazing animals.
3. Mechanical control: The process of eradicating the weeds manually by restoring to hand pulling,
hoeing, tilling or by mowing (grubbing). Tractor may be used also.

4. Chemical control: In the chemical method, the use is made of herbicides and weedicides for the
eradication of weeds and unwanted plants. The methods are quite effective and have certain
advantages than other methods. The herbicides can be used in the immediate vicinity of the
weeds. Some of the herbicides clear the area covered by weeds permanently. This increase forage
yield of the range lands. It is easier in application and less expensive. Herbicides should be:
economical, easy in handling, sure result, and non toxic to animals
Herbicide is a chemical that kills the plants. The chemicals employed can be classified into:
(a) Selective herbicides (b) Non-selective herbicides.
(a) Selective herbicides are those which are effective in killing only certain weeds or broad leaved
plants when provided with a given dosage and may not affect the growth of grasses and certain
other plants. it can be applied directly to the foliage part of the growing plants.
(b) Non-selective herbicides are those which kill the above ground parts of most of the plants that are
treated.
To destroy the roots of perennial weeds, trans-located herbicides may be used which move with in the
plants. Some of the trans-located herbicides are: carbine, 2 methyl-4chlorophenoxy acetic acid. Name of
some herbicides are: TCA (Trichloracetic acid) and 2, 4 DB (2, 4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid.
Note: Invasive species such as Lantanma Camera, Mikania Macarantha (in CNP) Water hyacinth (in
lakes) are common in Nepal.
5. GRAZING MANAGEMENT
INDIFENEOUS HEARDING SYSTEM OF NEPAL
Livestock rearing in the area depends upon the overall farming system of the area. Herding system is
governed by factors as cropping intensity, Availability and proximity of forest resource, Animal Species
and productive stage, Labour availability, Animal population per household. Farming systems at different
altitude are different upon the temperature, irrigation, and other interrelated factors and will vary.

Common herding system in Nepal (a) Transhumance system (b) Sedentary System (c) Stall Feeding
TRANSHUMANCE SYSTEM
This system is adopted in the high Himalayan area where the herds of animals migrate from one place to
another throughout the year. Herdsmen settle at about 2500 m elevation and this system applicable in
where sedentary animal husbandry is not possible due to snowfall and shortage of grazing areas. All the
herbage remains under snow for about six months in a year. Therefore, as soon as temperature rises,
animals start ascending to the high elevations in March for grazing and they start moving down in August
and reach at 2000m elevation. Herds of animal migrate from one place to another throughout the year. In
this system alpine pasture utilizes during monsoon and crop stubble of the fallow land utilize during
winter.
During upward and downward migration, the undergrowth in the forest region is the major forage source.
The ruminant animals involved in this system are; Yak, Sheep, goat, and cattle. But in some area
buffaloes are also included. The pure breed yak can not come down below 3000m elevation, they either
have to go to Tibet for grazing while all the grass land remain under snow in Nepal, or remains in Nepal
under starving condition. Owners go to see their herd once a while and offer some corn bread, which does
not help even for maintenance. Other animals while on the way to lower elevations graze on the crop
stubble of arable field and lopped branches of Quercus and Castonopsis.
SENDENTARY SYSTEM
Ruminant livestock make daily grazing and return evening. The main grazing area during the summer is
the scrubland and community grazing area around the village. The sedentary population consists of
working oxen, dry buffaloes and small number of cattle.
STALL FEEDING SYSTEM
This type of animals rearing is found mostly in the area with intensive cultivation and availability of crop
residues are abundantly in addition to tree leaves and other grass and weeds are available. Mostly the high
value animal like milking buffalos and exotic or crossbreed animals are kept under this system.
TRANSHUMANCE SHEEP HEARDING SYSTEM
This system is followed in the High hill and Himalayan areas (Mustang, Dolpa, Jumla and Humla).
Animals are moved to different area throughout the year. The flock migrates from lower hills (south) to
the high alpine pasture and back again based on climatic condition. Supplemented with 40-50 gm
salt/head/week .This is one of oldest system evolved when animals were domesticated. In migratory
flocks, sheep and goat are run together, with the goats acting as the lead animals. Baruwal and
Bhyanglung sheep, Sinhal goat are the principal breeds in this system.
In Transhimalayan area Chyangra “Mountain goat” also form the considerable number in herd
composition.2 or more shepherds accompanied by Tibetan mastiff dogs look each migratory flock.
Animals are not owned by single individual and belong to several owners. Shepherds may be owners as
well as hired.
Socio-economic factors influencing Livestock Population and Structure: Geographical region along with
socioeconomic issues play an importance role in livestock population and structure. Pastoralism has a
long history in the northern region. Geographical region along with socioeconomic issues play an
importance role in lives. Horses are the fulcrum of society and one of the most significance measures of
wealth in Himalayan area. Villager of the Himalayan offset their income and low-yielding field by
keeping domestic livestock. The number and kinds of animals kept by residents vary with Village to
village, House to house. It also depends on Community wealth, Individuals family income and Available
rangeland and forage resources.

Death from cold and starvation during harsh winter is common for the livestock in the Himalayan area. In
the last twenty years, however the number of horses kept by the people of Mustang has continued to
increase due to income generated by tourism trade ( @ Nrs 400 to 1000/day) but current development of
road network can decrease these source of income. Goats (Capra hircus) are common in all Mustang as a
domestic animals. Goats, sheep and yak are reared for their meat, milk, skin and wool and carry salt from
Tibet. Mules, donkey, yak cow cross breeds: Ploughing and Transporting. Their dried dung is an
important fuel, used all over Tibet, and is often the only fuel available on the high treeless Tibetan
plateau. Yak milk is often processed to a cheese called chhurpi in Tibetan and Nepali languages
Constraints in herding systems:
1. Excessive Population Depending on Limited Natural Resources: Lack of Forage resource and water for
livestock
2. Severe Forage Deficit: Availability of feed and fodder during the winter and early summer is a major
constraint
3. Disease and their effects: (a) High incidence of disease and parasitism is common (b) Poor nutrition
© Mostly disease and parasite are endemic to Nepal (d) Many more yet to be diagnosed (e) Approx 90%
death or mortality occurs due to starvation and 10% due to accidents and disease.
4. Labour availability: (a) High labour requirement and minimum Net return (b) The size of the herds
depends upon the labor availability. (c) One herder can take care of approx 500 heads. (d) Sheep and
goats are generally looked after by either children or by old people incapable for doing other operations.
5.Poor productivity potential of indigenous animals: (a) Low milk production (b) Low meat
production/body size (c) Quantity and quality of wool low (d) Long calving interval (e) Late sexual
maturity
6. Poor marketing Structure: (a) For livestock and it’s byproducts (b) Hat Bazaar System: Weekly system
(c) No competitive market (d) Middleman control
7. Poor Transportation and Communication: Narrow trails and bridges to pasture
8. Lack of specialized industries.
9. Climate change: Changes resulting in disaster such as floods, landslides can also have devasting effect
on local rangeland and create the situation difficult for trans-humance herding.
10. Livestock depredation: Snow leopard, bears,
CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS TABOOS
Most villagers in SPNP in Dolpa are Buddhists and have strict religious beliefs against the killing of
animals. Certain places are considered sacred where animal entry is not allowed: movement of human and
livestock restricted in Himalayan pick after crops are cultivate; beliefs to be the homes of gods and
goddesses.

6. FORAGE MANAGEMNT IN CONTEXT OF COMMUNITY FORESTRY
INTRODUCTION
In Nepal more than 80% of the population derives their livelihood from agriculture. Existing farming
systems are traditional, labour intensive and complex in nature. Livestock husbandry, forestry and arable
cropping are inter-dependent, being part of same system. Average land holding of the farmer in the
country is around 0.5 ha which can barely meet staple food that required for the families. The situation
continues to deteriorate, stressed by continues reduction in size of landholding, shortage of traditional
forms of forest litter and animals litter linked with declining crop yield. Under these conditions, in
particular the poor have become increasingly dependent on exploiting governmental/communal forest
areas to sustain their animals, on which they depend for their survival.
Over the past 30 years, human population and animal population in the country continue to increase faster
than forage resource can be developed.
Cause of resource decline in Nepal
• Increase in LS population
• Resettlement programme
• Timber export to India (past and present)
• Shifting cultivation
• Development project
• Encroachment on resources
• Illegal harvesting and selling etc.
Under present condition, more than 50% of farmer’s fodder requirements are derived from forest (Paudel
&Tiwari; 1992). Forest Act 1993 and Regulation 1995 provide opportunity for increasing user
involvement, responsible, accountable for fodder, bedding and litter.
Forest based Concept for Forage Development: Community Forestry, Leasehold Forestry concept are
currently towards forage development established during the 1990s and 1970s respectively. The
community forestry concepts supports livestock development indirectly by increasing the supply of
animals bedding, fodder trees resources and indigenous grasses. No planned attempts to promote improve
fodder cultivation and utilization from the understory of the forestland.

In leasehold Forestry: it mostly focuses on fodder (trees, shrubs and pasture). Each farm family gains
access to approx.1 ha of forestland for improve fodder production.
Forage and Pasture Intervention on Community Forestry
1. Protection from Grazing to Facilitate the Natural Regeneration of Indigenous and Naturalized
Exotic Fodder and Pasture Species ( Paudel &Tiwari 19920) reported that simple protection of
CF of 19.2 ha had produced 24 m of grass in dry matter basis and had a potentially to produce 30
m grass along with 100mt of wood biomass annually.
2. Strategic Use of Exotic Fodder and Pasture Species: (Legumes and some grass which required
low and medium fertility).
Stylo (Stylosanthes guinensis), molasses grass (Melinins minutiflora) are successful in warmer
climate. White clover (Trifolium repens), cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata) and or Perennial grass
(Lolium perenne) has shown limited potential in cooler climates
3. Multipurpose/Fodder Tree Plantation and Silvi-pasture: Nitrogen fixing plan should be promoted
in plantation area: pasture as a under story.
4. Broom Grass, Bamboo and Nigalo Plantation: Broom (Tyosanaleana maxima), bamboo
(Dendrocalamus spp) and nigalo ( Arundanaria spp):
These include soil conservation, to provide fodder during scarce period, and to increase
household income by providing raw material to village based cottage industries and selling
brooms in nearby markets.
OVERSTORY/UNDERSTORY VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
Light intensity determines the forage production in forest and may largely determine the species present
in natural condition. In dense stand of most conifer: few plants will grow on the forest floor.
Heliophytes: Plants that thrive best in bright light or full sunshine are known as sun plants
Skiophytes: Those that are shade tolerant, as shade pants
SECONDARY GROWTH FOREST
It is found beneath the primary layer of trees and are less dominant. It consists of herbs, shrubs and small
trees. It’s determined by the amount of available light and moisture. They may attain prominence when
the canopy is not too dense. The pasture yield decrease as the tree canopy increases. The establishment of
pasture-tree combination system ( Silvo pastoral system) is an ideal use practice in this.
Saccharum under the Leucaena leucocephala or Cynoden dactylon under the Acacia nilotica
PLANTATION FOREST
Dry tropical: Acacia catechu, A. nilotica, Albizia lebbek, Azadarichta indica, Leucaena leucocephala,
Melia azadarichta, Bauhinia variegata.
Moist Tropical: A. Catechu, Adina cardifolia, Anthocephalus chinensis, Morus alba, Syzygium cumini,
Terminalia chebula, Melia azadarich, Ficus religiosa
Sub Tropical: Alnus nepalensis, Bauhinia racemosa, Ficus religiosa, Mallotus philippinesis, Toona
ciliata,
Temperate: Populus ciliata, Quercus floribunda, Q. glauca

Multiple uses of forest grazing land: Multiple uses means management of the grazing land for the variety
of purposes likes: Forage production, Wildlife management, Fuel wood production, Timber production,
Litter production, Eco-tourism and Medicinal herb production
The relation between the components in multiple uses could be: Competitive, Complementary AND
Supplementary
FODDER PRODUCTION FROM GARAZING LAND
It supports both wildlife and domestic animals. It should be based on overstory/understory concept. The
species selected should have the following criteria: Well recovering species, Longer producing,
Compatible with tree, Soil stabilizing, Shade tolerant
As many as 33 tree species are lopped for tree fodder in the central Himalayan at an elevation of 300 –
3100 m. Tree leaf fodder is available between Oct- July.
FODDER
FOR TERAI FOR MIDHILLS
SN Botanical Name Nepali Name SN Botanical Name Nepali Name
1 Albizzia procera Seto siris 4 Brassiopsis hainla Chuletro
2 Dalbergia sissoo Sisau 5 Castanopsis tribuloides Musure katus
3 Ficus semicordata Khanyu 6 morus alba Kimbu
4 Gmelina arborea Gamari 7 Saurauria nepalensis GoganTingur
5 Grevia optiva Bhimal 8 Albizzia odratissima -
6 Acacia nilotica Babul 9 Erythrina arborescens Phaledo
7 Leuceana leucocephala Ipilipil 10 Ficus roxburghii Nimaro
8 Litsea monopetala Kutmero 11 Ficus nimarolis Dudhilo
9 Michelia champaca Champ FOR HIGH MOUNTAIN
10 Sesbania grandiflra Dhaincha SN Botanical Name Nepali Name
11 Terminali alata Asna 1 Celtis australis Khari
12 Zizyphus jujube Bayer 2 Quercus lamellose Thulo phalant
13 Ficus nimarolis Dudhilo 3 Q.leucotricphora Sano banjh
14 Azadirahta indica Neem 4 Q. semecarpofolia Khasru
FOR MIDHILLS 5 Salix babylonica
SN Botanical Name Nepali Name 6 Taxsus baccata Lauth salla
1 Artocarpus lakoocha Badhar 7 Populus ciliate Banghe kath
2 Bauhinia purpurea Tanki 8 Brassiopsis glomerulata Kalo chuletro
3 Bauhinia variegate Koiralo 9 Quercus lanata Thulo banjh
FUELWOOD AND TIMBER PRODUCTION
It brings nutrients from sub-surface to make it available to the companion crops. Deeper rooting species
pumps minerals up from deeper soil layers to the surface. Some times considered by experts as ‘Wishful-
thinking’ especially for phosphorus. But fast growing forage species could well extract all the available
nutrients in the topsoil in the first years of production. Many forage species grows well under low soil-
PH. From the mineral point of view, the non-fertilizer, option is not enhancing the sustainability of the
intervention on the long run. Species selected should have following character apart from the general
character of fuel wood and fodder: (a) Compatible with grass (b) Deep rooted (c) Light Shading
FUELWOOD

1 Acacia nilotica Babool 1 Aesculus indica Kandar
2 Acacia auricoloformis 2 Albizzia lebbeck Kalo siris
3 Anogeissus latifolia Banjhi 3 Alnus nepalensis Utis
4 Terminali tomentosa Asna 4 Betula alnoides Bhojpatra
5 Eucalyptus camaldulensis Masala 5 Eurya acuminata Jhingane
6 Gmelina arborea Gamari 6 Bauhinia variegata Koiralo
7 Largerstroemia parviflora Bot dhangero 7 Castanopsis indica Katus
8 Azadiracta indica Neem 8 Quercus lanata Thulo banjh
9 Dalbergia sissoo Sisau FOR HIGH MOUNTAIN
10 Bauhinia variegata Koiralo 1 Betula utilis Bojpatra
11 Albizzia lebbeck Kalo siris 2 Betula alnoides -
12 Adina cordifolia Haldu 3 Juniperus spp. -
13 Bombax ceiba Simal 4 Quercus lanata Thulo banjh
TIMBER
1 Shorea robusta Sal 4 Castanopsis indica Katus
2 Tectona grandis Teak 5 Cedrus deodara Deodar
3 Terminalia alata Asna 6 Cryptomeria japonica Dhupi salla
4 Dalbergia sissoo Sisau 7 Pinus roxburghii Kote salla
5 Dalbergia latifolia Satisal 8 Quercus lemellosa Thulo phalant
6 Acrocarpus fraxinifolius - 9 Toona ciliate Tooni
7 Eucalytus camaldulensis - FOR HIGH MOUNTAIN
8 Gmelina arborea Gamari 1 Abies pindrow Gobre salla
9 Albizzia lebbeck Kalo siris 2 Abies spectibilis Talis patra
10 Albizzia procera Seto siris 3 Cedrus deodara Drodar
11 Largerstromia parviflora Bot dhangero 4 Cupressus torulosa Raj salla
FOR MIDHILLS 5 Juglans regia Okhar
SN Botanical Name Nepali Name 6 Pinus wallichiana Gobre salla
1 Exbucklandia populnia Pipal 7 Quercus floribunda Thinke
2 Aesculus indica Kandar 8 Q. semecarpifolia Khasru
3 Betula alnoids Bhjpatra 9 Aesculus indica Kandar
LITTER COLLECTION
Leaf Litter collection is another important component of Nepalese farming system. At present; 50% of the
litters produced are removed2.3 mt Litter and manure are applied per hectare of cultivated land. The
practices of collecting litter seriously interrupt the nutrient cycle. The quantity of manure production by
livestock are depends on (stall feeding; no of livestock, and amount of bedding materials). The use of
litter will be further increase to replace chemical fertilizer. Criteria of species for the little production
have
• Easily decomposable leaves
• No other effect on cultivated land ( Pine needle)
In Cool climates: coniferous forest: decomposition of litter is very slowly where as in the Warm, moist:
rapidly decomposition takes places.
Mor Moder Mull

Typical for slow humification Typical for moderately slow
humification
Typical for fast humification
No mixing with mineral soil Mixing with mineral soil Intense mixing with mineral soil
forming clay-human complexes
Presences of fungi, low biotic
activity
Residues of small insects,
medium biotic activity
Present of earth worms
C/N Ration >20 C/N ration 10-20 C/N Ratio < 12
PH 3.5-4.5 Ph 5 PH 5-7
Erica, Rhododendron, coniferous
spp
Deciduous tree Grass and Crop residues
7. FORAGE MANAGEMENT IN CONTEXT OF THE FARMING SYSTEM
INTRODUCTION
Different forage development program in Nepal are already well accepted. E.g. use of the winter annuals
oats/berseem and improvement of communal cut and carry area with Stylo and molasses grass. Leucaena
is widely grown, although management is sub optional.
STRATEGY
Emphasis should be promoting more strategy options and introducing a wider range of genetic materials,
whilst allowing well established activities. Strategies and species need to be continually refined, and the
ranking of importance of strategies will continually change. Strategies should be focus on use of
leguminous species because of their roles in livestock nutrition and in stabilizing cropping systems.
Species recommendations should continually change, in the light of local experience and availability of
new genetic materials. Species recommended should mostly well adopt to low soil fertility. In the cut and

carry system large quantity of nutrients are removed from the soil, and eventually these must be replaced
by the addition of organic or inorganic fertilizer. Generally use mixture to reduce risk of failure. And we
need to familiarize farmers with the alternatives species.
Key strategy for implementation of forage development
 Over sowing: for the more production of forage, available land (Communal grazing areas,
roadsides, landslides) should be sown with forage species.
 Forage should be raise on terrace risers
 Leguminous forage/cover crops should be promoted under citrus and other trees
 Under sowing/ relay cropping of forage legumes in annual crops such as finger millet will be
effective
 Hedgerows of multi-purpose tree legumes should be promoted.
 Communal cut and carry plots should be develop.
 Intensive individuals cut and carry plots should be established.
TERRACE AND BUND TMPROVEMENTT
1. Planting should be started on the upper terrace and should be continued to the edge of the field in
downhill terraces.
2. As far as possible fallowing should be avoided.
3. All the operations should be done across the slope.
4. Minimum tillage and relay cropping should be practiced.
5. Over grazing should be avoided and maximum crop residue should be left to keep the ground
well covered.
6. Safe disposal of water. Planted grass in waterways.
7. Manures and fertilizers should be applied.
8. Bunds are relatively on lower slope and should be protected by seeding or planting grasses.
UTILIZATION OF NON-AGRICULTURAL INCLUSIONS (Gullies, Kharbari)
In the small gullies, at the head of a gully, grasses and other herbaceous cover often hold the top few
centimeters of the soil with a mass of fibrous roots. Woody plants and tap root species hold a thicker layer
of soil than do the grasses.
Gullies that are deeper than 0.5 m and that are growing both upstream and downstream need control
measures at these critical points. A series of small dams are used to control gullies or large flows. Dams
may be constructed from materials available at the site. After sedimentation and filling to a stable extent,
extensive planting with suitable species.
In case of Kharbari, if it contains some palatable species, these should be used for grazing for animals, if
not, the land under Kharbari should be cleared and reseeding with palatable grasses and forage may be
done.
FODDER TREE IMPROVEMENTS
In Nepal, there is long tradition of using fodder tree leaves during winter and dry summer period,
particularly in the hills of Nepal whether it comes from farm land or from forests. Farmers have

traditionally protected or planted tree seedling for fodder available place and in marginal land. In Nepal
more than 130 species of trees used as fodder and it plays an importance role in livestock husbandry.
Advantage: (a) Natural preservation (b) Multiple species: trough out the years (c) Use of Marginal land
Disadvantage: (a) Late producer (b) Production less per unit area as compare to ground fodder (c) Mostly
single or two time harvesting system (d) Shading effects on crops
Improvement options:
 Planting only selective species
 More focus on legume and NFT species
 Can withstand multi harvesting
 Focus on hedgerows species: produce more forage per unit area.
 Manage lopping operation/practices
IMPROVEMENT OF CROP RESIDUES MANAGEMENT
In Nepal Mostly green grass are available from June to September so crop byproducts plays very
important role.
Crop By products Quantity (000 ton) Percent
Rice straws 4400 59.8
Maize Stover 1800 22.4
Wheat straw 1200 14.3
Millet straw 240 3.0
Barley straw 43 0.5
Total 9843
In general crop by products are inferior in quantity. They contain high fiber low protein.
How to improve quality: (a) Treating with urea (b) Ammonia treatment (c) Maize Stover ensiling (d)
Urine treatment
These treatments increase the protein% and palatability. For the improved use of the byproduct it can be
used by supplementing with high quality forage like berseem, stylo etc.
Problem associate with crop byproduct improvement in Farmers Level: (a) Lack of technical know how
(b) Cost factor (c) Limited response to animals (d) Lack of extension
PROPER FEEDING TECHNIQUES
In general good quality forage meets all the requirement of the animals. Feed requirement differ with
stage of production. Producing animals needs extra nutrition over maintenance. When the animals loose
their condition some concentrate need to be provided such as grains, cakes etc. Some time additional salt
and bone meal improve the condition of animals and feed intake. Vet licks or mineral blocks are available
commercially in the market for mineral supplement.
Supplement feeding required for: (a) Young animals (b) Pregnant animals (b) Meat/Milking animals
Supplement feeds: Protein, fats, vitamins, minerals
Concentrates feeding time: (a) Winter: scarcity of grains and fodder (b) Summer: inaccessible season
Concentrates: Rice bran, Whet grain, Barley bran, Maize bran, Oil seed cakes

HAY (PARAL) AND SILAGE PRODUCTION
Hay is grass, legumes or other herbaceous plants that have been cut, dried, and stored for use as
animal fodder, particularly for grazing livestock. It is also fed to pets such as rabbits and pigs. Hay is fed
when or where there is not enough pasture or rangeland due to weather (such as during the winter) or It is
also fed during times when an animal is unable to access pasture, such as when animals are kept in
a stable or barn.
 Drying of the grass at right stage of maturity for the further use.
 Reduce moisture down to 15-20%
 Protect it from rain, reduce the possibility of loosing leaves of dried grass.
 Utilize instead of green forage when such green forages are not available and it equally good as
green grass.
Good quality of Hay: The quality of hey depends on the species, time of harvest and freedom from
moulds and bacteria.
 Should have sufficient leaves
 Mixed hay of legume and grass are better than grass only.
 Harvest forage immediately after flowering started (10% flowering), earlier quantity is
less and later than this the quality is poor.
 It should be green in color (dry in shade)
 No fungus/ moldy growth
 Soft and nutritious
 Should able to store for long period.
Types of hay
1. Legume hay: Made from legumes: more nutritious
2. Non-legume hay: hay made without legume
3. Mixed hay; contains both legume and grasses
Suitable species to make hay: Any grass and legume which can be easily dried quicker, like oats,
cynodon, berseem, Pennisetum, Heteropogan
SILAGE: It is defined as the product obtained by packing fresh fodder in a suitable container and
allowing it to ferment under anaerobic condition with out undergoing much loss of nutrients. It can be
storage for more than a year. Quality of silage depends upon time of harvesting, type of forage, storage.
Good quality silage is usually greenish or yellowish brown in color and with pleasant aroma.
Advantage
 Can be store without reducing the quality
 Less space required
 Control weed problem
 There are may ways of silage making

 Pit silage
 Tower silage
 Plastic bag silage
▪ Pit silage is more common in Nepal, in small farming system. Pit should be
narrower in bottom than in the top for better compaction.
 Types of grass: Any forage can be use for silage but it should have around 60-65% moisture
content.
 Forage like maize, bajra, sorghum makes good silage.
 Silage can be made by mixing legume and grasses. But in general grass can easily preserve as
silage than the legumes.
Method of silage making
 Harvest crop at suitable time
 Reduce the moisture % of forage into 60-65%
 Chop it into pieces of 2-2.5’’
 Place plastic sheet at the bottom of pit to check the contamination with soil.
 Place the chopped forages and continue compaction for removal of air
 Continue up to 1 foot above ground level
 Cover with plastic again and plaster with mud.
 Temperature ensiled place will be 30-38 0c
 Take care not to allow airs and water in the silage pit.
In North America, Australia, North-Western Europe, and frequently in New Zealand, silage is placed in
large heaps on the ground and rolled by tractor to push out the air, then wrapped in plastic covers held by
recycled tires.
Good quality silage: Soft, smelling like curd, green or dark
 Lab test for silage quality
Characters Good silage Bad silage
PH 4.1 5.4
Lactic acid 8.5 1
Acetic acid 2.5 3
Butyric Acid 0 3.5
Ammonium nitrate 1.9 4
Silage can be feed after 3 months of ensiling. It should be started to feed from one part of pit and cover
after every use. Some time the animals may not like it so it should be fed slowly to adopt the animals.
Hay is grass, legumes or other herbaceous plants that have been cut, dried, and stored for use as animal
fodder, particularly for grazing livestock such as cattle, horses, goats, and sheep. Hay is also fed to pets
such as rabbits and guinea pigs. Pigs may be fed hay, but they do not digest it as efficiently as more fully
herbivorous animals.

Hay is fed when or where there is not enough pasture or rangeland on which to graze an animal, when
grazing is unavailable due to weather (such as during the winter) or when lush (green) pasture by itself is
too rich for the health of the animal. It is also fed during times when an animal is unable to access pasture,
such as when animals are kept in a stable. Good quality hay is green and not too coarse, and includes
plant heads and leaves as well as stems. This is fresh grass/alfalfa hay, newly baled.
Commonly used plants for hay include mixtures of grasses such as ryegrass (Lolium species), timothy,
brome, fescue, Bermuda grass, orchard grass, and other species, depending on region. Hay may also
include legumes, such as alfalfa (lucerne) and clovers (red, white and subterranean). Other pasture forbs
are also sometimes a part of the mix, though other than legumes, which ideally are cut pre-bloom, forbs
are not necessarily desired. Certain forbs are toxic to some animals.
Oat, barley, and wheat plant materials are occasionally cut green and made into hay for animal fodder;
however they are more usually used in the form of straw, a harvest byproduct where the stems and dead
leaves are baled after the grain has been harvested and threshed. Straw is used mainly for animal bedding.
Although straw is also used as fodder, particularly as a source of dietary fiber, it has lower nutritional
value than hay.
It is the leaf and seed material in the hay that determines its quality. Farmers try to harvest hay at the
point when the seed heads are not quite ripe and the leaf is at its maximum when the grass is mowed in
the field. The cut material is allowed to dry so that the bulk of the moisture is removed but the leafy
material is still robust enough to be picked up from the ground by machinery and processed into storage
in bales, stacks or pits. Poor quality hay is dry, bleached out and coarse-stemmed. Sometimes, hay stored
outdoors will look like this on the outside but still be green inside the bale. A dried, bleached or coarse
bale is still edible and provides some nutritional value as long as it is dry and not moldy, dusty, or rotting.
Hay is very sensitive to weather conditions, particularly when it is harvested. In drought conditions, both
seed and leaf production are stunted, making hay that has a high ratio of dry coarse stems that have very
low nutritional values. If the weather is too wet, the cut hay may spoil in the field before it can be baled.
The hay may also develop rot and mold after being baled, creating the potential for toxins to form in the
feed, which could make the animals sick. It also has to be stored in a manner to prevent it from getting
wet. Mold and spoilage reduce nutritional value and may cause illness in animals. The successful harvest
of maximum yields of high-quality hay is entirely dependent on the coincident occurrence of optimum
crop, field, and weather conditions. When this occurs, there may be a period of intense activity on the hay
farm while harvest proceeds until weather conditions become unfavorable.
Silage is fermented, high-moisture fodder that can be fed to ruminants (cud-chewing animals like cattle
and sheep) or used as a bio-fuel feedstock for anaerobic digesters. It is fermented and stored in a process
called ensiling or silaging, and is usually made from grass crops, including corn (maize), sorghum or
other cereals, using the entire green plant (not just the grain). Silage can be made from many field crops,
and special terms may be used depending on type (oatlage for oats, haylage for alfalfa – but see below for
the different British use of the term haylage). Silage is made either by placing cut green vegetation in a
silo, by piling it in a large heap covered with plastic sheet, or by wrapping large bales in plastic film.
Silage must be made from plant material with suitable moisture content, about 50% to 60%, depending on
the means of storage, the degree of compression, and the amount of water that will be lost in storage. For
corn (maize), harvest begins when the whole-plant moisture is at a suitable level. For pasture-type crops,
the grass is mowed and allowed to wilt for a day or so until the moisture content drops to a suitable level.

The plant material is collected, chopped into pieces about 0.5 in (1.3 cm) long and packed. In the early
days of mechanized agriculture, stalks were cut and collected manually using a knife and horse drawn
wagon, and fed into a stationary machine called”silo filler" that would chop the stalks and blow them up a
narrow tube to the top of a tower silo. Current technology uses mechanical forage harvesters that collect
and chop the plant material, and deposit it in trucks or wagons. These forage harvesters can be either
tractor-drawn or self-propelled. Harvesters blow the silage into the wagon via a chute at the rear or side of
the machine. Silage may also be emptied into a bagger, which puts the silage into a large plastic bag that
is laid out on the ground.
In North America, Australia, North-Western Europe, and frequently in New Zealand, silage is placed in
large heaps on the ground and rolled by tractor to push out the air, then wrapped in plastic covers held
down by re-used tires or tire ring walls.
Fermentation: Before starting the anaerobic stage there is an aerobic phase in which the trapped oxygen is
utilized. After finishing that oxygen, the anaerobic phase starts. Silage undergoes anaerobic fermentation,
which starts about 48 hours after the silo is filled. In the past, the fermentation was conducted by
indigenous microorganisms, but, today, some bulk silage is inoculated with specific microorganisms to
speed fermentation or improve the resulting silage. The process converts sugars to acids and exhausts any
oxygen present in the crop material. Fermentation is essentially complete after about two weeks. Silage
inoculants contain one or more strains of lactic acid bacteria, and the most common is Lactobacillus
plantarum. Other bacteria used in inoculants include Lactobacillus buchneri, Enterococcus faecium and
Pediococcus species.
Pollution and waste: The fermentation process of silo or pit silage releases liquid. Silo effluent contains
nitric acid (HNO3), which is corrosive. It can also contaminate water courses unless collected and treated
– the high nutrient content can lead to eutrophication (growth of bacterial or algal blooms).
Plastic sheeting used for sealing pit or baled silage needs proper disposal, and in some areas there are
recycling schemes for it.
Storing silage: Silage must be firmly packed to minimize the oxygen content, or it will spoil. Four major
stages silage goes through in a silo:
• Presealing, which, after the first few days after filling a silo, enables some respiration and some
dry matter (DM) loss, but stops
• Fermentation, which occurs over a few weeks; pH drops; there is more DM loss, but
hemicelluous is broken down; aerobic respiration stops
• Infiltration, which enables some oxygen infiltration, allowing for limited microbial respiration;
available carbohydrates (CHOs) are lost as heat and gas
• Emptying, which exposes surface, causing additional loss; rate of loss increases.
Anaerobic digestion: Silage is a useful feedstock for anaerobic digestion. Here silage can be fed into
anaerobic digesters to produce biogas that, in turn, can be used to generate electricity and heat.
Safety: Silos are hazardous, and deaths occur in the process of filling and maintaining them. There is a
risk of injury by machinery or from falls. When a silo is filled, fine dust particles in the air can become
explosive because of their large aggregate surface area. Also, fermentation presents respiratory hazards.
The ensiling process produces "silo gas" during the early stages of the fermentation process. Silage gas

contains nitric oxide (NO), which will react with oxygen (O2) in the air to form nitrogen dioxide (NO2),
which is toxic.[5]
Lack of oxygen inside the silo can cause asphyxiation. Molds that grow when air reaches
cured silage can cause toxic organic dust syndrome. Silage bales are heavy, and can fall, roll or
overbalance machinery. Collapsing silage from large bunker silos has caused deaths. Silage itself poses
no special danger.
Nutrition: The ensiled product retains a much larger proportion of its nutrients than if the crop had been
dried and stored as hay or Stover. Bulk silage is commonly fed to dairy cattle, while baled silage tends to
be used for beef cattle, sheep and horses. Since silage goes through a fermentation process, energy is used
by fermentative bacteria to produce volatile fatty acids (VFA), such as acetate, propionate, lactate, and
butyrate, which preserve the forage. The result is that the silage is lower in energy than the original
forage, since the fermentative bacteria use some of the carbohydrates to produce VFA. Thus, the ensiling
process preserves forages, but does not improve the quality or the nutrient value.
8. INTEGRATED FORGAE RERSOURCE MANAGEMENT
INTEGRATION OF FARM, FOREST AND LIVESTOCK SYSTEM
Important linkage exists between forestry and farming. Forestry support agriculture and livestock
husbandry. It is importance to understand this linkage in the context of forestry development and to future
forestry activities to fulfill the needs of the local people.

Some common integrated systems
1. Silvo-agriculture: Tree+ Agriculture crop
2. Agrosilviculture: Agriculture+ Trees
3. Silvopastoral: Trees+ grazing land (Pasture)
4. Spatial arrangement:
1. Border or boundary planting: line fences, wind breaks
2. Alternate row and alternative strips: alley or hedgerow cropping
3. Random mixing: no specific arrangement
4. Home garden
PLANNING THE ANNUAL FORAGE BUGET
Annual forage budget is the input-output relationship for particular forage crop. A forage budget includes
all the variable resources per unit area (Ha), cost, the expected output, grass returns and net returns etc.
Budget sheet
S.N Particulars Unit Amount
A Land preparation
1 Tractor fuel cost for ploughing and leveling
2 Land preparation may be done by bullock drawn plow
3 Human labor for removing stubbles, weeds etc
B Manure and fertilizers
Farmyard manure/compost
Urea
Others

Labour for fertilizer application
C Seed sowing
Seed
Labour for seed sowing
D Irrigation
E Insect control
Insecticide
Human labour
F Weed control
Herbicide
Human labour
G Human labour for cutting and grazing
Total cost
Supposes Total production: 30 ton green grass/ha and selling at 0.5 paisa/kg
Gross benefit: Rs 15000
Net benefit= Gross benefit – Total Cost
BOTTLENECKS TO IMPLEMENTATION OF FORAGE RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT
It is generally claimed that ruminants are the best way to accumulate capital and are important for the
maintenance of crop production. The common premise is that ruminant production and productivity is
low and that is mainly due to shortage of feed. Very litter importance is given in the government
programme to resolve these issues.
Bottlenecks
1) Policy Issues
I. Lack of coherent policy on rangeland management
II. Responsibility split into different agencies
I. Forestry
II. Agriculture
III. Lack of co-ordination between agencies
2) Management Issues
IV. Negligence on indigenous knowledge while formulating plans.
V. Poor state of knowledge on scientific management

3) Technological issues
I. Most of the research activities carried out in the past have been a failure to
recognize the need of the farmer and country
II. Most of the researches are either a duplication of the pervious finding of focused
on sophisticated study that is less applicable in the existing situation.
III. Lack of available technology on grazing management, stocking rate etc related to
the local situation.
IV. Lack of exposure to the modern management techniques
V. Lack of suitable propagation materials
VI. Poor linkage between extensionist, researcher and farmers.
4) Institutional Issues
• Low capacity of NGOs, GOs and CBOs and private institutions
• No defined role of the above mentioned organizations
5) Socio- economic Issues
• Poor understanding of local priorities, situation and interests.
• Roles of WPDM groups are not well recognized
6) Others
• Difficult accessibility
• Population pressure
• Low productive animals
• Marketing of animals product
• Lack of extension education to the farmers
• Lack of trained manpower in this field
• Infrastructure and incentives
POLICY RECOMMENDATION TO OVERCOME LIMITATION
Any activities, which try to address the above problem, may have significance positive impact to resolve
the existing bottleneck to implement the forage development problem in the country. We should have
Collaborative works
- on technology development,
– rangeland management,
– Human resource development
– Socio-economic studies
• Should develop Rangeland database
• Policy should be Bottom up
• Alternative feeds and fodder resources

• Management of grazing areas
– Rangeland management plans
– Improvement of grazing area by scientific inputs.
– Imposition of adequate rational fees
– Improvement of herbage resource along the migratory routes
– Introduction of alternative system of hortisilvipasture, wherever feasible.
• Capacity building of institutions
• Proper attention to incorporate gender prospective
• Establishing strong resource centers for range/pastureland
Policy recommendation:
1. Community forest management
2. Improved stove management
3. Improved irrigation and hydro facilities
4. Improved grazing system
5. Winter forage resource management
6. Improved animals husbandry
7. Alternative income generating activities
8. Tourism management plan including trekking permit limitation
9. Coordinate with local labour
10. Restricted fuel wood use (trekking, camping)
11. Sustainable forest management.

GLOSSARY
• Range: Natural and uncultivated grassland, shrub land and forest land that produces forage for
grazing and browsing livestock and wildlife.
• Forage: Herbaceous palatable plants mostly used as grazing.
• Fodder: Herbaceous palatable plants mostly used by cut and carry system.
• Herbage: Both palatable and non-palatable fodder and forage.
• Browse: Palatable leaves or shoots/twig.
• Range analysis: The critical study of range classes in individual form.
• Defoliation: Removal of leaves or live parts of plant.
• Range ecosystem: interaction between biotic and a biotic components of rangeland.
• Range science: it deals with the use of rangeland to obtain return of the resources benefit to meet
the needs and desire of the people in a sustainable way.
• Forbs: Plants with solid, non-woody stem, usually, broadleaf with netted venations.

Plant species found in the rangelands of Nepal
RANGELAND PLANT SPECIES
Tropical (Terai)
Ageratum conyzoides, Artemesia vulgaris, Arthraxon sikkimensis, Arundinella
nepalensis, Bothriochloa glabra, Bothriochloa intermedia, Brachiaria villosa,
Chrysopogon aciculatus, Cissus repens, Cymbopogon pendulus, Cynodon dactylon,
Cyperus difformis, Desmodium heterocarpon, Desmostachys bipinnata, Digitaria
longiflora, Eragrostiella nardoides, Eragrostis atrovirens, Eragrostis nigra,
Eragrostis pilosa, Eragrostis unioloides, Hackelochloa granularis, Heteropogon
contortus, Hymenachne pseudointerrupta, Imperata cylindrica, Ischaemum rugosum,
Narenga porphyrocoma, Neyraudia reynaudiana, Panicum notatum, Paspalidium
flavidum, Paspalum conjugatum, Paspalum scrobiculatum, Phragmites karka,
Pogonatherum paniceum, Rotala indica, Saccharum arundinaceum, Saccharum
spontaneum, Sacciolepis indica, Setaria pallidefusca, Sporobolus diander, Trudax
procumbens, Vetiveria zizaniodes.
Subtropical
Ageratum conyzoides, Agrostis pilosula, Anaphallis busua, Apluda mutica, Apocopis
paleacea, Artemisia vulgaris, Arthraxon sikkimensis, Arundinella bengalensis,
Arundinella nepalensis, Arundinella setosa, Bothriochloa intermedia, Bothriochloa
pertusa, Brachiaria ramosa, Brachiaria villosa, Campanula cana, Capillipedium
assimile, Capillipedium parviflorum, Carex alopecuroides, Cheilanthus grisea,
Chrysopogon aciculatus, Chrysopogon fulvus, Chrysopogon gryllus, Cymbopogon
jawarancusa, Cymbopogon pendulus, Cymbopogon stracheyi, Cynodon dactylon,
Cynogolossum zeylanicum, Cyperus niveus, Cyperus rotundus, Desmodium
heterocarpon, Desmodium microphyllum, Digitaria longiflora, Digitaria setigera,
Dimeria fuscescens, Dryopteris fillix-mass, Elephantopus scaber, Eleusine indica,
Eragrostiella nardoides, Eragrostis atrovirens, Eragrostis nigra, Eragrostis pilosa,
Eragrostis unioloides, Eulalia mollis, Eulaliopsis binata, Eupatorium adenophorum,
Euphorbia thymifolia, Gonostegia hirta, Heteropogon contortus, Heteropogon
contortus, Imperata cylindrica, Isachne globosa, Ischaemum rugosum, Justicia
procumbens, Laggera alata, Micromeria biflora, Paspalidium flavidum, Paspalum
distichum, Paspalum scrobiculatum, Pennisetum pedicellatum, Perotis hordeiformis,
Phyllanthus parvifolius, Pogonatherum paniceum, Rotala indica, Saccharum
spontaneum, Sacciolepis indica, Schizachyrium brevifolium, Setaria pallidefusca, Sida
rhombifolia, Sporobolus fertilis, Thysanolaena maxima.

Temperate
Agrostis myriantha, Agrostis gigantea, Agrostis micrantha, Agrostis munroana,
Agrostis pilosula, Anaphalis triplinervis, Andropogon munroi, Apluda mutica,
Apocopis paleacea, Artemisia dubia, Arthraxon sikkimensis, Arundinella birmanica,
Arundinella hookeri, Arundinella nepalensis, Arundinella setosa, Berberis aristata,
Berberis asiatica, Bothriochloa intermedia, Bothriochloa ischaemum, Brachypodium
sylvaticum, Bromus nepalensis, Calamagrostis emodensis, Calamagrostis epigejos,
Calamagrostis pseudophragmites, Capillipedium assimile, Chrysopogon gryllus,
Colquhounia coccinea, Cotoneaster microphyllus, Cymbopogon distans,
Cymbopogon pendulus, Cymbopogon schoenanthus, Dactylis glomerata, Danthonia
cumminsii, Deschampsia caespitosa, Desmodium elegans, Deyeuxia scabrescens,
Digitaria longiflora, Elymus canaliculatus, Elymus semicostatus, Elymus thomsonii,
Eragrostis nigra, Erianthus longesetosus, Eulalia mollis, Eulaliopsis binata, Festuca
gigantea, Festuca leptopogon, Festuca modesta, Festuca ovina, Festuca rubra,
Festuca wallichiana, Glyceria tonglensis, Hackelochloa granularis, Helictorichon
virescens, Helictotrichon asperum, Helictotrichon virescens, Imperata cylindrica,
Koeleria cristata, Miscanthus nepalensis, Muhlenbergia duthieana, Muhlenbergia
himalayensis, Muhlenbergia huegelii, Oryzopsis lateralis, Pennisetum flaccidum,
Phleum alpinum, Poa alpina, Poa angustifolia, Poa annua, Poa pagophila, Poa
pratensis, Pogonantherum crinitum, Pteridium acquilinum, Rosa brunonii,
Schizachyrium delavayi, Setaria pallidefusca, Stipa roylei, Themeda anathera,
Themeda quadrivalvis, Themeda triandra, Trisetum clarkei, Trisetum spicatum.
Sub-alpine
Agrostis inaequiglumis, Agrostis pilosula, Anthoxanthum hookeri, Artemisia stricta,
Bromus grandis, Bromus himalaicus, Calamagrostis pseudophragmites,
Calamagrostis emodensis, Chrysopogon gryllus, Cymbopogon schoeanthus,
Danthonia cumminsii, Deyeuxia scabrescens, Duthiea nepalensis, Elymus
canaliculatus, Elymus dahuricus, Elymus nutans, Elymus schrenkianus, Elymus
sibiricus, Festuca leptopogon, Festuca ovina, Festuca polycolea, Helictotrichon
virescens, Koeleria cristata, Pennisetum flaccidum, Poa alpigena, Poa ludens,
Stellarea chamaejasme, Stipa consanguinea, Stipa duthiei, Stipa royleii, Stipa sibirica,
Stipa staintonii, Trigonella emodi, Trisetum spicatum.
Alpine
Androsace delavayi, Aster stracheyi, Bistorta vivipara, Carex atrofusca, Cortia
depressa, Gernium donianum, Kobresia nelpalensis, Kobresia caricina, Kobresia
duthei, Kobresia kanaii, Nardostachys grandiflora, Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora, Poa
pagophila, Potentilla peduncularis, Rheum moocroftianum, Saussurea gossypiphora,
Swertia multicaulis.
Steppe Agrostis pilosula, Andropogon munroi, Aristida adscensionis, Arthraxon submuticus,
Arundinella setosa, Berberis angulosa, Berberis concinna, Bothriochloa intermedia,
Bothriochloa pertusa, Bromus grandis, Bromus himalaicus, Bromusporphyranthos,
Calamagrostis emodensis, Calamagrostis garhwalensis, Calamagrostis
pseudophragmites, Caragana brevifolia, Caragana versicolor, Carex atrata,
Cerastostigna ulicinun, Chrysopogon gryllus, Cymbopogon schoeanthus,
Cymbopogon strachey, Cymbopogon stracheyi, Danthomia cumminsii, Danthonia
cachemyriana, Deyeuxia holciformis, Deyeuxia pulchella, Deyeuxia scabrescens,
Elymus canaliculatus, Elymus dahuricus, Elymus schrenkianus, Elymus semicostatus,
Eulalia mollis, Festuca ovina, Fimbristylis complanata, Helictotrichon virescens,
Indigofera cylindracea, Juniperus indica, Juniperus squamata, Kobresia macrantha,
Kobresia seticulnis, Koeleria crista, Koeleria cristata, Lespedeza juncea, Medicago
falcata, Melica jacquemontii, Melica scaberrima, Oryzopsis lateralis, Pennisetum

flaccidum, Poa alpigena, Poa pagophila, Poa poophagorum, Poa pratensis,
Potentilla fructicosa, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron lepitodum,
Rhododendron nivale, Rosa sericea, Stipa moocroftiana, Stipa sibirica, Themeda
roylei, Themeda triandra, Trisetum aeneum.
Sources: Whyte (1968), Field & Pandey (1968), Stainton (1972), Pariyar & Shrestha (1984), Miller
(1987), Archer (1990).

Rangeland note iof

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